Top 12 Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews in 2023

Editors Choice: In our opinion, Storm Absolute qualifies as the best storm bowling ball of all. This heavy oil ball surely knows its way on the lane. It inherits all the good things from other balls and combines them to perform even better. With a R2S Deep Hybrid cover and Sentinel core, this ball shows promising continuation through downlane and maximizes pin carry.

Bowling is a recreational sport that has quickly drawn people’s attention due to its easy to play vibe. With all the necessary equipment in your arsenal, you cannot go wrong while bowling.

To set things right for you, a handful of renowned manufacturers have been producing high-quality bowling accessories for decades. Storm is one of the top tier companies among them.

One company that is best known to make all sorts of accessories for both beginner bowlers as well as professionals. In an attempt to fulfill the rising demand, they have come up with innovative and compelling products all the time.

Today we will be discussing their bowling balls. No doubt, they have manufactured a series of high-quality bowling balls, but these balls surely have edge one over another. With that thought in mind, it is time to review the best storm bowling balls ever produced by Storm. Let’s dig in.

BEST STORM BOWLING BALL REVIEWS - COMPARISON CHART

Coverstock	Color	Weights (lb)	Warranty	See Details
SPEC Solid Reactive	Steel Blue	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
R2S Pearl Reactive	Emerald	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
R2S Pearl Reactive	Cyan/Indigo/Charcoal	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
R2X Solid Reactive	Midnight Black Solid	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
R2S Pearl Reactive	Blue/Bronze/Gold	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
GI-17 Solid Reactive	Navy/Electric/Orange	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
R2S Pearl Reactive	Blue/Purple	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price
NRG Hybrid Reactive	Carbon/Teal	12-16	1 Year	Check Latest Price

Recommended Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews

1. Storm Absolute Bowling Ball

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

The Storm Absolute emerges as a distinguished addition to Storm’s Premier Line, blending innovation and performance. This bowling ball brings together the brand new Sentinel Core and the R2S Deep Hybrid coverstock. This potent combination makes the Absolute both distinct and versatile.

Despite its low RG value of 2.48, indicating a tendency to read lanes early, the ball surprises with its clean traversal, especially under various conditions. The Sentinel Core is particularly notable, as it is the first single-density asymmetric core in the Storm collection since the Storm Lucid. This core aims to maintain its dynamic integrity after drilling. By preserving the weight block dynamics, there is an increase in intermediate differential and a reduction in RG, resulting in the ball reacting more efficiently to friction, leading to a better continuation through the pins.

The R2S Deep Hybrid cover, an improvement upon the original R2S formula, is cleaner at the fronts. This cleaner cover gives players an advantage in manipulating surfaces for a weaker or stronger lane response.

In practical tests, including comparisons with the 900 Global Reality Check, the Absolute showcases its unique ability to offer more aggressive shapes and overall angles through pins. The ball’s adaptability to various surfaces makes it a versatile tool for players.

The bottom line is the Absolute is apt for straight players who value a ball that is both assertive and predictable. Storm’s expertise shines through in the Absolute, creating a ball that offers strength, flexibility, and an unmatched striking capability.

Pros:

Sentinel Core: This new feature from Storm ensures a strong angular predictability. The core reacts crisply off the pattern and makes the Absolute roll with conviction, providing a powerful impact at the pocket and a strong continuation.
R2S Deep Hybrid Coverstock: The Absolute's coverstock is cleaner than the original R2S formula, which helps it bite effectively through the mid-section of the lane. It produces a brisk and decisive motion towards the pocket without being overly sensitive as the lane conditions change.
Versatility: The Absolute showcases its adaptability in various conditions. It is predictably forgiving and reliable whether on fresh league conditions or during transitions.
Reacta Gloss Factory Finish: It performed well in most conditions, particularly when tweaked slightly with Storm's Step 2 compound. The finish allowed players to effectively navigate even lanes that had yet to be freshly oiled.
Performance in the Premier Line: The Absolute has a low RG, a medium differential, and a high intermediate differential, making it an aggressive ball that can read the lanes both front-to-back and side-to-side. Its unique combination makes it stand out in the Storm's Premier line.

Cons:

2. Storm Super Nova Bowling Ball

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

The Storm Super Nova is a compelling addition to the Storm brand. Sporting the dynamic Ignition Core and an aggressive NeX Solid Reactive Coverstock, it has been designed with a penchant for performance on heavier oil patterns. This ball boasts a Perfect Scale Hook Rating of 233.2, reflecting its high potential for a strong hook. Its lime, azure, and black color scheme make it stand out visually. The Super Nova revives the Ignition Core from the original Nova but wraps it in the NEX Solid Coverstock, previously seen in the Proton Physix. This combination results in a remarkably strong ball, requiring ample oil to showcase its optimal performance.

For bowlers with a high rev rate, it may be too powerful for regular league play. However, it shines in tournaments, especially on longer and heavier oil patterns, providing excellent stability and control. One of its key features is its ability to handle higher oil volumes without compromising its backend reaction. This makes it particularly useful for bowlers who face challenging oil patterns in tournaments.

Another salient point is the Super Nova’s compatibility with a variety of bowler styles. From down-and-in players to high-speed/low-rev players, this ball promises consistent performance on fresh THS conditions. The ball’s strength is evidenced by its ability to turn left sharply, giving bowlers the confidence to throw wider angles. Moreover, the Ignition Core’s unique design ensures a robust mid-lane reaction, exploding through the pins with power.

The Storm Super Nova is not merely another bowling ball at its core. It symbolizes Storm’s dedication to crafting top-tier equipment for bowlers from all walks of life. Whether local league matches or national championships, the Super Nova is an indispensable tool in your lineup. If you are on the lookout for a ball tailored for heavy oil conditions, blending consistency with power, then the Super Nova is your match. This ball is more than just a product of Storm’s longstanding tradition; it is a beacon of what is next in bowling innovation.

Pros:

Cons:

3. Storm Summit Bowling Ball

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

The Storm Summit is a stellar addition to the Storm bowling ball lineup. With a dominant “Perfect Scale Hook Rating” of 228.4, it is truly designed for those seeking high performance. The ball is engineered with the TX-23 Hybrid Reactive coverstock, an updated version of the esteemed TX-16 found on the Phaze II. The Centripetal HD core is complemented by the novel A.I. (Amplified Inertia) outer core. This strategic pairing lowers the RG to an impressive 2.46 and elevates the differential, ensuring the ball’s swift spin.

In practical applications, this bowling ball has demonstrated remarkable prowess. When juxtaposed against the 900 Global Zen Master, the Summit initiates more rapidly. It presents a more pronounced aggression, outmatching the Zen Master when going deep. Against the Storm Absolute, the Summit is again faster to start. The ball exhibits a greater overall hook, despite the Absolute’s numbers suggesting otherwise. With the 900 Global Reality Check, the Summit’s strengths shine again, being quicker to start and more robust on the spot.

One of the Summit’s most significant attributes is its ability to adjust well with surface alterations. For instance, a 3000-grit finish offers a strong, continuous curve. But when polished at 2,000, it provides a more extended and sharper reaction.

It is no surprise that many bowlers have added the Summit to their primary arsenal, swearing by its unmatched strength and precision. This ball is versatile, performing exceptionally on both sport and house shots. Its robust, symmetrical design makes it perfect for various conditions, allowing bowlers to keep their angles open without sacrificing power or accuracy.

Bowlers who have traditionally loved the Phaze 2 will find the Summit a valuable addition, filling gaps with its enhanced strength and performance. It is more potent, initiating about 2 feet earlier and proving 2-3 boards stronger overall than the Phaze 2. The Summit is quickly becoming a go-to for those wanting a ball that combines power with precision. It is an expression of Storm’s commitment to quality and performance, cementing its position as the best Storm bowling ball for many enthusiasts.

Pros:

Strong Symmetric Ball: The Summit is identified as Storm's strongest symmetric ball to date, providing robust and consistent hooking potential.
Enhanced Oil Absorption: With its TX-23 Hybrid Cover, the ball has an improved grip on slick conditions, allowing bowlers more control and versatility.
High Performance: The Storm Summit is a high-performance ball, suitable for both house shots and tournament conditions, particularly with heavier oil.
Versatility: Bowlers highlighted its adaptability, from house patterns to more challenging sport patterns, across different conditions. Even when a shot is missed, the ball slows down and makes a smooth transition right to the pocket.
Comparison to Phaze II: The Summit is seen as an upgraded version of the popular Phaze II, with an updated coverstock and added strength. It provides a balance between the early pickup of the Phaze II and a more angular backend movement.

Cons:

4. STORM NOVA BOWLING BALL

Features:

14lb

15lb

16lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

The Storm Nova is an exceptional piece in the Storm’s Premier product line, designed to enhance the game of avid bowlers. With its eye-catching Hot Pink/Lime/Jet Black color, the Nova stands out not just aesthetically but in terms of performance too. The ball’s core, named “Ignition,” paired with the innovative R2X hybrid reactive coverstock, gives the Nova a distinctive edge on the lanes.

The R2X coverstock is known for its equilibrium between the R2S and NRG coverstocks. This combination provides an immense hook in the front and mid-lane while ensuring continuity down the lane. The Nova’s design allows it to perform exceptionally well in medium-heavy lane conditions.

Many bowlers have observed Nova’s versatility across various environments. Its strong asymmetrical core boasts high flare potential. Drilling the Nova with a pin-down layout can elongate the roll phase and reduce flare, leading to surprising and satisfying results on the lane. Its design caters to straighter angles initially, then widens as patterns transition. This makes the Nova ideal for medium patterns and worn lane surfaces, especially as it efficiently blends over/under reactions.

Further, the Nova has proven to be a game-changer for down-and-in players. The Ignition Core of the Nova is admirable for its methodical rev in the mid-lane and distinct motion down the lane. It offers a relentless continuation, making it a force to reckon with. The hybrid coverstock, R2X, performs best in fresh or high volumes of oil. Yet, its design allows players to adjust confidently to varying lane conditions.

When it comes to comparing the Storm Nova with other bowling balls, it fits neatly between the Proton PhysiX and the Dark Code. On the spectrum of Storm’s new releases, the Nova stands as the strongest, followed by the Phaze 4 and then the Spectre. It is more forceful and continuous than the Roto Grip X-1, offering about 2-3 boards more hook.

The Storm Nova is a masterpiece, a testament to Storm’s commitment to continually redefine the hook and roll in the bowling world. It is highly recommended for those seeking versatility, strength, and control in their game.

Pros:

Versatility: The Nova is adaptable and can be used on various lane conditions, from fresh medium patterns to worn lane surfaces and higher volumes of oil.
R2X Hybrid Coverstock: This unique blend allows the Nova to stay online more easily while providing smooth, consistent traction as it moves through the mid-lane.
Ignition Core: The core's innovative design offers a strong dynamic that provides a definitive motion that bowlers can predict and rely upon. It also has a powerful continuation through the pin deck.
Great for Multiple Bowler Styles: Whether you're a down-and-in player or have a higher rev rate, the Nova can elevate your game, providing hook, control, and continuation.
Comparison to Other Balls: The Nova appears to be stronger and more continuous than similar balls, such as the Roto Grip X-1 and the Proton PhysiX. Its strength makes it a favorable option in different scenarios, such as opening up the lane or getting deeper into the oil.

Cons:

5. Storm Pro Motion Bowling Ball

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

Today, our first ball to review is Storm Pro Motion. This heavy oil ball features the spec solid cover, which was launched on the Storm Crux Prime. And, the newly designed lightweight piston core which separates the Pro Motion quite a bit from the previous two BELMO balls, the Timeless and the Drive.

The differential is similar, but the RG is much lower which makes it more rolly and helps it rev up more. The spec coverstock is much different than either the covers from the previous two. Now whether you liked or disliked the Timeless or the Drive, that doesn’t matter or apply here.

Because Storm Pro Motion shares absolutely zero in common with either of them reaction wise. And, I think that’s already pretty obvious now.

Overview: Full disclosure, I wasn’t a fan of either of the previous BELMO balls. I thought the Drive was better than the Timeless, but neither of them had any real use for me.

But it is an entirely opposite experience with the Storm Pro Motion. It feels like a combination of the Phaze Two, the IDOL, and the IQ Tour, or at least it’s in the same vein.

It’s not as early as the IDOL; it’s not a slow downlane as the IQ Tour. It is every bit as versatile as the Phaze Two, maybe even more so. But it is big on control, it is big on the continuation, and its biggest strength comes from the spec cover. It seems to take all the best things from those other balls and combines them.

The cover reads the lane itself better than any other cover I have used. So it blends the pattern incredibly well. It is not nearly as sensitive to transition as other balls.

Storm Pro Motion is more resistant to performance loss due to a much slower oil absorption rate compared to traditional reactives, as well as a feature called chemical adhesion, that helps it to really blend the lane out.

So these all add up to make it one of the best storm bowling balls I have ever thrown.

Comparison: Comparing it to some of these other big-name tournament balls like the Storm IDOL and Storm Phaze Two, they’re still pretty obvious studs.

Storm Pro Motion vs. Storm IDOL: Storm IDOLs are earlier and actually pretty boomy on the back end when there’s enough volume upfront. But you got to have the head oil, or it can burn up. And, due to the Nano and the cover, it is going to be straight or off the end of the pattern.

Storm Pro Motion vs. Storm Phaze Two: The Storm Phaze Two has been the standard for tournament balls for the last couple of years.

Kris Prather gravitates towards it quite a bit, and it’s on TV for both the men and the women very often. Now even with the pin-down layout I have on mine, it can be just a little too quick downlane from straighter angles. But, that’s typically where the IDOL shines, provided of course you have the oil.

The Phaze Two definitely prefers to play a little more lane when you can roll it more.

Advantage: The Storm Pro Motion steps into both control straighter angles like the idol and gets every bit as deep with a sweeter role as the Phaze Two.

It is also a great complement to the Storm Crux Prime. There are different shapes but have a very familiar field due to the distinct reaction characteristics of the spec cover. The Prime is even better at controlling angles, but it’s pretty slow on the back end, and it can be too flat on carry down or when the reactions soft downlane.

This makes it great for something like the Nationals team pattern. But not so much on the doubles and singles pattern where the Storm Pro Motion looks good on both.

Pros:

Cons:

6. Storm IQ Tour Emerald

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

For the IQ Tour Emerald, you can use the layout 65 by 4 by 40. Some may find the layout unconventional, but this is what I use. With the differential this core being so low, you can utilize a stronger, more continuous pin position without it flaring too much and consequently being earlier than you’d like.

The story is pretty simple with this one. It is a remake of the late great IQ Tour Pearl, aka the Gold Bowl.
With R2S pearl reactive coverstock and the lightweight C3 centripetal control core, this ball provides a smoother change of direction downlane.

Storm IQ Tour is a pretty Rolly and smooth ball, but the layout makes it more aggressive. The angles from the second arrow were a little tricky, but I got softer with it and it did work. Moving inside here is why I liked the layout so much.

These core and cover combo really controlled the mid lane well. It is clean through the heads but begins to roll pretty heavy halfway down the lane with a weaker layout. Given the low differential, there’s a limit to how deep you can get with an IQ.

By going stronger with the pin, I get a more continuous and more substantial read; I get the mid lane control and a firmer move downlane. As a result, I can successfully play deeper angles and still get the hit.

Pros:

Cons:

7. Storm AstroPhysix

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

Storm AstroPhysix is another one of the best storm bowling balls introduced by Storm. It looked as good as anyone could hope for at second arrow.

Most of that being due to the cover type, which is a significant point to make here. The Physix, the original, is NRG hybrid which is a powerful, early, and smooth cover formula.

The AstroPhysix features R2S Pearl, which is pretty well the opposite of NRG. It is clean all the way down the lane and its storms most responsive cover to friction. That way, it ends up being a great complement to the Physix. Something I likely would not have been able to say had it been NRG pearl instead.

You will be able to stay slower and roll it despite the straighter angle, and that’s due in large part to how clean the cover is.

I am both more comfortable playing deeper, and it is a much more appropriate place to play this pattern anyway.

Comparison:
In a tournament or any situation where I was trying to score, I would have likely been through the Halo, the original Physix, and possibly the Phaze Two. That is before the track got developed enough to go with something shiny. But I had a pretty good look across the board on Sphinx with the Astro.

I had more missed room inside than I did outside, but with higher volumes of oil outside and a shiny cover, that is not really surprising.

Pros:

Cons:

8. Storm Hy-Road X Bowling Ball

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

Hy-Road X is an excellent addition to Storm’s Hy-Road bowling ball series. It inherits Storms Fe2 technology that ensures higher RG and differential. Due to its R2X solid reactive coverstock and 1500 grit polished factory finish, this ball is breezy through the lane.

Unlike other balls, Hy-Road X lacks the core material, and that actually is a good thing. Because of this, the ball obtains a much thicker shell, results in a higher energy transfer to the pins, and less deflection upon impact.

When comparing to the Hy-Road Pearl, it shares the shape similarity more with it but is quicker on the back end.

The Hy-Road is cleaner through the fronts, but it is noticeably quicker on friction and sharper and straighter on the back end. The Hy-Road X, on the other hand, does not seem to have that typical Hy-Road cliff.

There is a certain point when moving left that you really have to start wrapping around it and slowing it down to get it to rev and continue through the pins. That is because of how high that RG is and how long it naturally wants to go. But it did not reach that point with this one.

The bottom line is that Hy-Road X is definitely a worthy addition to the Hy-Road line and a fitting ball to celebrate the Hy-Roads 10th anniversary. It is a clear beast and wins the versatility contest for sure.

Pros:

Cons:

9. Storm Soniq

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

Soniq is another legendary Storm bowling ball that comes with Centripetal™ HD core and R2S reactive coverstock. It is a Storm ball with low gravity core that hits the pin perfectly every time and maximizes the pin carry.

Centripetal™ HD core is the densest core Storm has ever produced. It has pushed the RG all the way down to 2.47 and the differential at 0.047. That is nearly 20 points higher than the differential of the c3 core in the Storm Tours at 0.029.

You can use this ball in your typical house shots. When the lanes are starting to transition, and you have to get all the way left and get the ball right without at losing continuation, this is the ball for you.

You can drill the Storm Soniq with a typical layout of 70 by 5 and 78 by 35 just to get down the lane. It will give a great continuation on the back end.

The key characteristics of the IQ Tour Series have been controlling consistency. While the Soniq builds on this, it is also a ball in its own league.
Compared to the IQ Tour, the Storm Soniq cooks a little bit more due to the increase in differential.

Pros:

Cons:

10. Storm Sure Lock

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

Storm Sure Lock is one of the strongest storm bowling balls you will ever throw. It was surprising to see how this ball starts so early and looks really good down the lane.

This heavy oil ball has RAD-X core and a bigger hooking bulb, which ensures consistent continuation through downlane and more pin carry. It slows down without burning energy and responds to friction very well.

You can roll Sure Lock on a medium to heavy oil pattern a little bit flat. That way, you will be able to use the ball a little further to the right. The color of the ball is just like Virtual Gravity, and it has a great shelf appeal. I do not see why you would not like this ball.

Storm Sure Lock vs. Storm Lock:
Storm Lock is a little bit weaker than Storm Sure Lock, maybe about three to four boards weaker. It is also a little bit smoother, not as jumpy and quick to respond as Sure Lock.

Pros:

Cons:

11. Storm Hy-Road Pearl

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

The Hy-Road Pearl will be seven years old in July, and there is a reason it is stuck around this long. Taking inspiration from the Hy-Road, a Pearl version of the R2S cover was wrapped around the inverted FE2 core.

Despite the Hy-Road being named the Hy-Road because of the hybrid cover stock, the Hy-Road Pearl is appropriately named because it is unmistakably a Pearl Hy-Road. This ball is very easy down the lane and smooth but strong on the back end and very continuous.

These are all things you can say about the original Hy-Road as well though the Pearl is slightly slower off friction and offers two to three boards less and overall hook.

It offers a hard arc that fits my eye well. It represents everything I like to see out of the ball reaction. Storm Hy-Road Pearl is something I can catch at the bottom and know what is going to get down the lane without worrying about it not making the corner.

With a few simple adjustments, the Hy-Road Pearl is easy to find a line with. It is every bit as versatile as the original Hy-Road, and that puts it in play for most bowlers on those conditions. It plays just as well from the first arrow as it does from fifth given appropriate conditions and only a few bowls can boast that kind of playability.

The Storm Hy-Road Pearl is neither new nor flashy. Although the ball looks and smells good, it doesn’t seem to do anything special on the lane. It just glides down the lane, starts making its move, and the pins fall down.

Pros:

Cons:

12. Storm All Road Bowling Ball

Features:

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

12lb

13lb

14lb

15lb

16lb

All Road is the last ball in our best storm bowling balls review guide. It features a hybrid reactive coverstock that ensures a thicker shell, which in return, maximizes the pin carry with less deflection upon impact.

The All Road bowling ball is much closer to the Hy-Road Nano than we thought it would be. They both have a version of the Nano cover. Our understanding was that the All Road would be cleaner and quicker like the original Hy-Road only stronger. But it is actually pretty smooth.

The Storm All Road has that Hy-Road shape we have come to love because of the inverted FE2 technology. Not to mention that is the reason All Road has a higher RG and differential like most other bowling balls from the thunder category.

All Road rolls earlier and is smoother than the rest of the line except for the Hy-Road Nano. Not only that, but this ball also exhibits a benchmark shape that is going to be great for a lot of different bowlers, both on house shots and harder patterns.

Pros:

Cons:

Wrapping Up

Storm has been around for some time now, and they have evidently manifested their dominance in the market by offering high-quality products so far. Out of all the products they have, they definitely shine by their bowling balls.

Their bowling balls are durable, boosted with advanced technology, and of course, affordable.
If you are a Storm fan and looking out for one of their best bowling balls, we undoubtedly recommend Storm Pro Motion.

Top 12 Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews in 2023

Top 12 Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews in 2023

BEST STORM BOWLING BALL REVIEWS - COMPARISON CHART

Recommended Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews

1. Storm Absolute Bowling Ball

2. Storm Super Nova Bowling Ball

3. Storm Summit Bowling Ball

4. STORM NOVA BOWLING BALL

5. Storm Pro Motion Bowling Ball

6. Storm IQ Tour Emerald

7. Storm AstroPhysix

8. Storm Hy-Road X Bowling Ball

9. Storm Soniq

10. Storm Sure Lock

11. Storm Hy-Road Pearl

12. Storm All Road Bowling Ball

Wrapping Up

4. Storm Pro Motion Bowling Ball

Leave a Reply

Top 12 Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews in 2023

BEST STORM BOWLING BALL REVIEWS - COMPARISON CHART

Recommended Best Storm Bowling Ball Reviews

1. Storm Absolute Bowling Ball

2. Storm Super Nova Bowling Ball

3. Storm Summit Bowling Ball

4. STORM NOVA BOWLING BALL

5. Storm Pro Motion Bowling Ball

6. Storm IQ Tour Emerald

7. Storm AstroPhysix

8. Storm Hy-Road X Bowling Ball

9. Storm Soniq

10. Storm Sure Lock

11. Storm Hy-Road Pearl

12. Storm All Road Bowling Ball

Wrapping Up

4. Storm Pro Motion Bowling Ball

Related Posts

Leave a Reply